Buddhist mobs in Burma attack aid workers’ homes

YANGON, Burma (AP) — Buddhist-led mobs are throwing stones at the offices of international aid organizations in Burma’s western Rakhine state, according to aid workers, residents and a government official.

There were no immediate indications Thursday that anyone was hurt in the violence.

The violence began in the state capital, Sittwe, Wednesday night.

State spokesman Win Myaing said up to 300 people surrounded Malteser International late Wednesday following reports that a woman had removed a religious flag flying in front of the office. The organization has provided aid to Muslim victims of sectarian violence.

He said police fired 40 to 50 warning shots to disperse the crowd.

Residents and aid workers said violence continued Thursday morning, with hundreds of people racing through a street that houses international aid workers, throwing rocks at homes.